Browse our current vacancies and click 'Apply' on the role you're interested in. You'll be guided through our online application form on myjobscotland. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role requirements outlined in the person specification.
resources &
guidance
Everything you need to prepare your application and understand what it's like to work with Orkney Islands Council. Download key documents, get interview tips, and find answers to common questions.
Documents & downloads
Information for applicants (SJC) Essential information about terms, conditions, and what to expect when joining the Council.
Interview expenses Details on how to claim travel and accommodation expenses for attending interviews.
Sleep ins Information about sleep-in duties, rates, and what these roles involve.
Standby Details on standby arrangements, allowances, and on-call expectations.
Unsocial hours Information about unsocial hours payments and which roles are eligible.
Relocation policy Support available if you are relocating to Orkney for your new role.
No documents found matching your search.
Interview preparation
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Do your research
Take some time to get to know us - have a look at our mission, values, and any recent news. Then read through the job description properly so you understand what skills and experience we're looking for.
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Prepare your answers
Try using the STAR method - Situation, Task, Action, Result - to structure your responses to behavioural questions. It helps you give clear, focused answers that show what you've actually done. It's also worth having a few questions ready for the interviewer - about the role, the team, or the culture here. It shows genuine interest and helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you too.
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Practice, practice, practice
Run through a mock interview with a friend or try an online tool to get comfortable with the format. Ask for honest feedback on your answers - it makes a real difference when the day comes.
Frequently asked questions
Our recruitment team will review your application against the essential criteria for the role. If shortlisted, we'll contact you to arrange an interview. We aim to notify all applicants of the outcome within two weeks of the closing date.
Yes, we offer a relocation package for eligible roles. Details are available in our Relocation Policy document in the downloads section above. We understand that moving to Orkney is a big step and we're here to support you through the process.
No. You can apply from anywhere in the UK or abroad. If you are offered a role, you will need to relocate to Orkney before your start date. A relocation package is available for eligible positions — see the downloads section for the Relocation Policy.
We recruit across a wide range of services including education and teaching, social care and social work, engineering and infrastructure, administration and finance, environmental services, planning, housing, and IT. Both full-time and part-time roles are advertised throughout the year.
Yes. If you have a disability and meet all the essential criteria for the role, you are guaranteed an interview under our Disability Confident commitment. Candidates with Armed Forces experience who meet the essential criteria are also guaranteed an interview under our Armed Forces Covenant pledge.
Many of our roles offer flexible working arrangements including part-time hours, compressed working weeks, hybrid or remote working, and flexitime. The specific options available depend on the role — check the individual job description for details. You are always welcome to discuss flexible working at interview.
Timelines vary by role, but typically: shortlisting happens within two weeks of the closing date, interviews are arranged within two to four weeks after shortlisting, and formal offers follow within a week of interview. Pre-employment checks (references, health clearance, Disclosure Scotland) usually take two to four weeks to complete before a start date is agreed.
MyJobScotland (myjobscotland.gov.uk) is the national job board used by Scottish local councils and public bodies. Orkney Islands Council uses it to manage all applications. You will need to create a free account to apply. Your profile saves your employment history and references, making it quicker to apply for future roles.
Orkney is an archipelago of around 70 islands off the north coast of Scotland, with a population of approximately 22,000. It consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Scotland. Cost of living is competitive compared to major cities, the natural environment is exceptional, and community life is strong. The islands have good schools, healthcare, transport links to mainland Scotland, and a thriving arts and music scene. Many council employees relocate from across the UK and find the lifestyle change a major benefit of the role.